Mariska Hargitay | Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Hello everyone, welcome to another. episode of Good Hang. Very excited about. our guest today, the one, the only. Mariska Hargitay. We have wanted Mariska. to come by for a very long time. We're. so happy that she's here and we're going. to talk about a lot of very exciting. stuff. We're going to talk about her. beautiful new HBO documentary My Mom, Jane. We're going to talk about um. the fact that she's America's favorite. detective. We're going to discuss what. parts we would play in an all-female. version of Hamilton. It's a great.

interview and um let's get started. listening to it. But oh, but before we. do, guess who we have. You know, we. always like to talk to somebody who. knows our guest, who has a question for. our guest, and we got a good one. We got. Christopher Meloni. That's right, Detective Stabler is here and you may. know him from Oz and from SVU and from. Law & Order: Organized Crime. Uh most. importantly, you might know him from his. star turn in Wet Hot American Summer, where I met him. But Chris Meloni is.

joining us today. Chris, can you hear. us? >> [music]. [music]. >> This episode is brought to you by. Palmolive. Some of the best memories. you'll ever make are around the dinner. table. You'll never regret trying out. those new recipes that may or may not go. sideways or putting on a spread so big. that your in-laws are still talking. about it years later. Brownie points. So. when it comes to the dishes, it's nice. to know there's a product that works as. hard as you do. Palmolive Ultra removes.

up to 99%. of grease, leaving your dishes sparkling. clean. Visit palmolive.com. Shop now. How are you, friend? I'm fantastic. >> Aw, so good to see you. Thank you. Where. am I talking to you from? Are you are. you in the city or Do you know what the. irony is?

I'm staying at Mariska's place. Get out. of here. How cool. Yeah, and I can't. show it to you because I haven't been. authorized, so but it's it's super. secret. It's like a lair. You know, you. remember the Batmobile? >> Yeah. It's a fence that goes down and. you go into a cave and the fence goes. up. I mean, it's really it's crazy. Oh, you have to like put your hand on a. sensor and it only and it reads your. fingerprints. Yep, everything. Yep. >> God, you know, this is all just this is. also satisfying for for for listeners.

that you're staying at Mariska's house. Yeah. >> [laughter]. >> Okay, before we get to her, though, hello, hi. Hi. We um we got to know each. other on a cult classic, a film called. Wet Hot American Summer, which I mean, some could argue you stole that movie. right from under. all of these sketch little. shrink-dinks. You just came in. >> you're. you're. Uh thank you. That's that's really sweet.

cuz I just look at the whole piece as. Uh. you know, it's to me it's the epitome of. a cult classic. I actually In fact, when. it did not do well at the box office, I remember, you know, I've been in the. biz long enough to go, you know, wah-wah. That I had a great time. I. thought it was great. Whatever. And then. all of a sudden, you know, over the. years you keep seeing these young people.

or being stopped in the street by a. younger people and you're like, is okay, am I crazy or is this a thing that's. happening? Yeah. >> And that was so exciting. >> Let's talk about what you're working on. Are you shooting currently right now? No. I'm going to play the head coach of. a football team in the NFL. I mean, you. definitely have a coach vibe. How do you. stay so fit? Oh man, you know, four four. four five days a week. >> Oh my god. Um you know, and as you as I.

I've been working out I I I calculate. and I think the longest I've not worked. out is maybe two weeks. >> Oh my god. And I've been doing that for. 50 years. That's that's that truly sounds like a. nightmare. Yeah. [laughter]. And it was but yeah. It is. >> [laughter]. >> But now it's my drug of choice, so it's. it's all good. Yeah, yeah, I get it. I. mean, it's a fantastic thing to invest. in yourself and it feels good and it it. it it it lengthens your life and all of.

it, but man. Yeah. >> Yeah, that's a lot of that's a lot of. hard work. Well, I I on behalf of of. everyone [clears throat] everywhere, thank you. Congratulations. >> people thank me. All the [laughter]. little actors. in Hollywood. >> [laughter]. >> The frail little actors. Now, Mariska. and you, I mean, you've had to answer a. million questions over the years about. um. your relationship on on the show and off.

the show and on shows and off shows and. but it really is truly like you are. family to each other. Yeah. How would. you describe, you know, your. relationship to each other? Um I I think. it was based uh I think it there's a. strong. cornerstone. that is uh comedic-based. We both are constantly. uh in search of great comedy. On and you know, we.

we literally tested out on each other. We used to, in between setups, we would. act drunk. Perfect. >> critique each other. Going like, yes, no, this is too much. >> [laughter]. >> No, no. Bring it. Okay, there. Go ahead. >> I used to say too, when I had to play. drunk, the first thing I would do is I. would take a big step closer to whoever. I was talking to. See, that's good. Spatial awareness is gone. Just one step. closer. >> people. You know, they do this thing and.

you're like, okay. Totally. Okay, so you and Mariska like. to do bits. Like Yes. There's something. about you. For a split second, she was she was. talking about she was looking, you know, she was going out on dates a lot or she. was going out on dates. And I said, I've you should be dating a. guy named Gerald. And [laughter] why that struck us as. funny, we don't know, but all of a. sudden she had a fan phantom.

guys that she dated that she was really. in love with, but it was difficult to. manage with Gerald. >> Sure. Oh, there's nothing like a fake. boyfriend. Yeah, I but I mention I. mention I said Jer I go, Gerald's here, but I told him to get lost cuz you were. working. [laughter]. In the middle of like, you know, setting. up a scene. And she goes, gosh, Chris, you're not allowed to do that. And she. starts running out. SHE GOES, GERALD! AND I WENT, THERE YOU GO. IT makes no.

sense. It's not even particularly funny, but it's just funny to us. >> I love a bit. God, I I mean, it's the. only way sometimes to get through a long. day is a dumb bit. Yeah, and I'll say. this because the the the. uh the genesis of where. I drove us. It came Your question was, you know, what's. what's the secret to the sauce? And so, you know, it's the comedy, but I would. also add that there's something. spiritual in it. And I think that's in. her nature and you know, perhaps it's an.

aspect of mine that I I recognize. Do. you think you knew each other in a past. life? That's funny. Yeah, I don't think. in those terms, even though I feel that. way. Like New York to me is that is that. to me that. >> Yeah. When I arrived in New York, I went. I I don't even know what this thought. is, but I should have been born here. That's so funny you say that. I felt the. same way when I came to New York. I. thought, oh right, this is the city I'm. supposed to live in. >> That Right. Oh, you know something? I.

can check this box. I'm no longer. lost. That's how it felt to me. Interesting. I mean, I wonder if there's. like there's all this like spirit. speaking of spirituality, there's all. this idea that there's like people in. your life and I can think of some for me. who just when I met them, I was like, oh, there you are. And they be they became part of my life. They're now, you know, where all of the. age now where now where where knowing. and working people for with people for. 25 years, 30 years. And suddenly it's. like they're some version of a.

you know, a. a group that was supposed to come. together. You're funny. I have the same thing I've and I've. never put it in those terms, but when I. walk away from someone, I I'll say this, that's a solid citizen. >> [laughter]. >> But you go, that's someone that you can. build a community with. >> Yes. >> solid citizen and it makes me, you know, again, makes me laugh. >> that. That's a solid citizen. I love. that. Okay, speaking So, we're talking.

to very solid citizen Mariska Hargitay. today. >> Yeah. I'm very excited to have her in. the studio. Mariska and I have gotten a. chance to see each other out in the. world, but never really had a real. conversation and I've seen her, you. know, at you know, I've been lucky. enough to be part of the many good works. that she does. And of course, I'm a huge fan of her. work and I've been very moved by her. recent film. But. there's a lot of sides to her and I feel.

like you get you know, that everyday. work environment thing is like you. really get to know someone. And so I. guess, do you have a question for me today that. I could ask her. that you feel like she never gets asked. or that, you know, I don't know, she would like to be asked. about? >> She is the consummate multitasker and. it's a gift that. I marvel at. You know, she she's a good connector of.

people. Um, so she has a wide spectrum. of the world as well as a very keen. incisive. uh. mano e mano uh engagement with people. You know, she can assess people very. well and. and engages them always from a kind of a. pure heart. She's always trying to find. the solution or the good and. I guess, you know, a question. what is that what's the driving force of.

all of these things and did you know. that, you know, did you start out oh, I'm going to be an actor? And then when was it when when do the. tumblers start to drop? >> I love what you're saying because the. like figuring out. the why of things. The why of the. journey, yeah. >> That is. >> Cuz you know, the is like to me that you. know, like the what a cur- what is what. curiosity is about like she's a seems. like a very curious person and I would. be and I'm curious about her curiosity.

basically. And you know, it that's what. I thought made her uh documentary about. her mom. so poignant. >> Mhm. Was the clarity of what the journey. was, right? The genesis of it the. the the the. her feelings the the things that needed. to get resolved for her the the deeper. insight. Oh my god. Oh, we lost we lost video. again. Hey. But that's okay. >> No. No, no, hold on.

Do you. Do you have me? We have you. Do you know why I lost you? Mariska just. called me. >> [laughter]. >> Amazing. Amazing. She's like what are you talking. about? She goes, why won't you pick up? Are you. naked? >> [laughter]. >> Do you want me to call her? >> Yeah, let's call her right now. Cuz she's I think she's on the way here. Does she know you're doing this? No. Amazing. No, so hold on a second. But.

don't say anything. What what's up, girlfriend? But I'm just. I felt so happy that you're there. I. REALLY AM. I WANT I'm so happy. I I want. you to enjoy it and just text me or. Sophie if you need to figure out how. anything works or whatever. Okay. Do you. do you and but and was that a hint do. you want a nudie? >> [laughter]. >> Could I? But first of all, I'm so sorry. I was so gross about those lemons. I. went to a buy a [ __ ] ton of lemons. because I loved having lemonade there. all the time. Seriously. Well, I saw. your lemonade sign. I saw your big.

lemonade sign right there. Hey, where. are you going? What are you doing? I'm right now I'm going to. Amy Poehler I have to do a podcast. >> [laughter]. >> You know, I've met her but I don't like. know her or anything. And then um I'm. doing that and then I just have meetings. for like. Now that I'm a mogul I made it Why are. you laughing? Why are you Why are you laughing? No, I. no, I love Amy. with all my heart and soul. That's why. I was just playing with you. You've. always loved her.

Since day one. I love you more than you. know. Thank you so much. Ciao. Love you. When I tell you. when I tell you that you guys should. start an OnlyFans. where people pay to hear you guys. FaceTime. That was incredible. I got very nervous. That was actually I actually started to. sweat because that was like a high. school version of like hearing how. somebody was going to talk about me. Thank god she didn't say anything bad. What if she had said I have to go do.

this dumbass podcast? Well, number one, I trusted that you know, she didn't. she's not that that but. I love that she didn't want to offend me. and I'm like, >> [laughter]. >> WHEN YOU SAID. I WAS LIKE, AMY, are you nuts? She would just wants. to play. She's the best. I love talking. to you. I hope I see you soon. Good. I love you, Amy. >> Thanks, Chris. Great to see you, buddy. This episode is brought to you by. Visible. You know that one friend who's.

always the first to know about. everything. They've got a dozen tabs. open constantly on their phone and in. their head. To be that friend, you need. wireless that can keep up. Visible is. the ultimate wireless hack that lets you. live in the know so you can follow a. rabbit hole as long as you want. Get one. line wireless with unlimited data, talk. and text for $25 a month taxes and fees. included. Plus Visible runs on Verizon's. 5G network so you can get great coverage. and a reliable connection without the. premium cost. Ready for wireless that.

lets you live in the know? Make the. switch at visible.com. Terms apply. See. visible.com for plan features and. network management details. This episode is brought to you by Voco. hotels. You know, when you're traveling. it's nice to soak up the unique. experiences, quirks and characteristics. of a hotel and it is a shame when you go. into a room and it is a carbon copy of. every other room that you've been to. before. But each Voco hotel across the. US has its own rhythm, local flavor and.

unique detail with beautiful rooms for. catching up on me time and full service. bars and restaurants for us time. So. come on in and live the Voco life. Book. your next day at vocohotels.com. I was walking out of my apartment this. morning and some lady very sweet lady. goes, oh my god, my my son goes to. college where she went to college and so. she said, oh, your son needs a great. and then I I don't know how my age came. up and I go, yeah, I know and now I'm 60.

and she goes, don't tell anyone your age and I go and. she's probably 70 and I go, why? I'm. proud of it. >> And you know, 60. >> So cute. 60 is 60 is very hot. 60 is the. new hot. >> 60 is hot. >> Yeah, it is. >> Yeah, it's hot. >> That's why I'm so I get so happy for. people that turn 60. I'm like, trust me, sweetie, it's all just beginning. I. know, I mean I people get really bunched. up about age. I want to talk to you. about it too because. >> I do think like. >> get into it. I love talking about it. >> Okay, because I bet you like me like. it's only getting better. Only getting.

better. Only getting better. And I'll. tell you something. I remember when I. turned 40. and I thought and I used to tell people, oh my god, life. begins at 40 cuz my 20s were super hard. and really struggled and then 30 you go, >> [sighs]. >> oh, okay. So now I. it's a new beginning but then 40 is when. it really kind of kicked in and I got. married and had kids and then 50 you go, oh, I'm in it and I know how to do it. But 60 gives you a.

new permission. We learn we learn no but. no with love and we learn like, oh, this. is how much time I have left and I'm so. grateful to be alive and I want to spend. my time in the best, most useful, productive, loving, generous but also. generous to myself way that you go, I'm. just so clear. Like there's a clarity to. 60. Top of act three. 60s is top of act.

three. >> That's exactly right. And bottom of act. two can be a little there can be some. like some reckoning. Yeah. But top of. act three you're like, all right, let's. do it. >> Let's do it. >> But also listen, you're the teacher of. this also to everyone about I really I. really do. like I would say humor and comedy. has. has has saved my life. And like a person. who can make you laugh when you're. really down is like an angel.

It's exactly right. Those are the words. out of my mouth and sometimes I'm so. this is why I'm still married because my. husband sometimes I'm so upset or I have. something's happened and I'm so scared. and I'm like, no, no, you don't. understand. Or I think I'm having an. anxiety attack and then I'm like, no, Peter, something's wrong. I think. >> [laughter]. >> something's wrong. I feel a thickness a. tightness in my chest and I might have. to go to the hospital. I can't feel my. right arm and I think I'm going to die. He immediately goes into the comedy and.

as soon as I laugh I go cuz that's his. test. It's litmus test. Should I be. scared or not? And um. I'm so grateful for that. I'm so great. I'm profoundly grateful for that. Even. when my kids do bad things. I call them losers. >> [laughter]. >> And then they say, oh, it's must be it's. not that bad if she's calling us. >> [laughter]. >> and we laugh through it. I know, I mean. that kind of like I've said this before. but like gentle teasing is like a love.

language that means you're safe, I'm. safe. We will get through this. >> I know. We'll get through this. I know. And you know, Gentle teasing even hard teasing. Hard teasing. Hard teasing. I learned. that from well, Chris Meloni was my. teacher. This guy played so rough. >> Yeah. >> and was the first person that busted. balls so hard but I did grow up with two. brothers so I was like, oh, oh, is this. how we do it? Is this how we do it? And. we were so rough on each other but then.

it became truly our love language. Okay, this leads me to say what I was going to. say later in the interview but I have to. say now Oh god. >> we do a thing at the beginning of the. interview where we ask someone to speak. well behind someone's back. Okay. >> And we kind of ask like we do a little. like zoom with somebody. Oh, I'm talking. to Mariska today. Do you think you know, you have any questions I should ask her? So we talked to Chris. Oh. And. [laughter] not only did we talk to Chris. but we just talked to him 20 minutes ago.

and Oh my god, look at me starting to. sweat. Okay, [laughter] I'm sweating too. because he answered your phone call. while we were on zoom. >> And I wrote back and said, why won't you. answer my FaceTime? Are you naked? >> [laughter]. >> That's what I said. Just answer my. FaceTime cuz he's at my house right now. Okay, we know. We know he's there. [laughter]. Because. he. he was talking so lovingly lovingly. about you. I mean So he's going through your He's. going through ALL OF IT. I'M FRIGHTENED.

HE IS. FIRST OF ALL, thank you. for not saying anything bad about me cuz. it was like. Maloney put us both on the spot in the. best way when he was like, "What are you. doing?" And you're like, "I'm going to. Amy Poehler's podcast." And I was like, "Oh my god." Wait, you were on the. phone, you heard what I said? Yes. And I. said, "You love her.". >> Yes, you were so nice. And it was And so. like while I was talking well behind. someone else's back, somebody else. talked well behind my back. >> [laughter]. >> That is so. That is so sweet. Thank you.

But Finally, is there anything better. than that than having somebody have your. back? No, there's nothing better. There's just nothing. I was talking to. my sisters this morning all. all morning about it. It's everything to. me. Well, Maloney's got your back. Yeah. And. you guys have. I mean, I want to get into it cuz it's. it's To me, it speaks to like this. bigger idea of like how our workplace. becomes like a second home and our. family. But.

you guys tease each other in a way that. to me is like that's what what what it. looks like with the people I love. That's how I show my love. And people. don't know you were in the Groundlings. Like comedy first. Always. How did I end. up as America's [laughter]. sweetheart SEX COP? LIKE. I SHOULD have been you. Oh my god, I. WANTED TO BE YOU. I WANTED TO BE YOU. >> [screaming]. >> I WANTED [laughter] TO BE ON LAW &. ORDER. I WAS LIKE, "OH MY GOD." I WANTED. TO BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY. BE WAS YOU. I WAS. LIKE, "Oh my god." She's Oh my god, all.

I. WANTED TO BE WAS. BE LIKE, "LISTEN to me." YES. AND. [laughter] EVERYONE was like, "No, babe, no one's going to listen to you." Can we. switch for a day? My dream. >> Okay, I'm going to try to switch. We'll freaky Friday that [ __ ]. >> Yeah, we'll freaky Friday that [ __ ]. >> I mean, because I would watch and I was. like, "God, to have that gravitas. and that play those scenes and to be. able to be in charge instead of being. like. >> [laughter]. [laughter].

>> Cuz you start Wait, how old were you. when you did Groundlings? God, that was many a year ago. >> right? Yeah, 20s. And then Kathy Griffin. always tells me in her book she tells a. story about how she dropped me. She was holding you? She said we did the. trust exercise. >> [laughter]. >> and then I of course I'm like, you know, "Yes, and." And she said that I just, you know, leaned back and she dropped. me. Do you you don't remember that? I. don't and I also think maybe that's part. of what's wrong with me now.

>> [laughter]. >> When you were auditioning in the. beginning, were you going out for. comedic stuff or you You were? >> a lot of. Yeah, I did, you know, I did Seinfeld. and. I did Single Guy and, you know, you know, I tested for Friends so. many times. Oh my heart. She remember? I think it's Monica, I. think. It's so long ago again. But I. always thought that I would. end up being on a sitcom or doing.

comedy. That's what I thought. >> Yeah. And it was so funny because this. is one of my favorite stories that you. will love. So I'm in LA, struggling actor, was doing I think it was after. Was it after ER? Yeah, after ER I was like, "What am I. going to do? What What am I What am I. going to do? I loved ER, but I was like, "I want to I had a development deal with. Warner Brothers. DreamWorks. And so I was developing a.

show and it was sort of like all la. What's the show with Calista Flockhart? Ally McBeal where it was half drama. dramedy. And that's what I wanted to do. I was like, "I want to do drama, but it. has to be funny cuz that's what I felt. like my gifts were." So. I came to New York, which I did three. times a year to see theater and then I. met with a psychic. Everyone said to me, >> [laughter]. >> "Oh my gosh, Mariska, you have to meet. with this psychic. He's amazing." So I. drove out somewhere on Long Island to.

this man and I went there and he started. saying all this amazing stuff to me, stuff about my mom and stuff about a. ring. My grandmother had just died and. he said there was going to be an issue. with the ring, which there was. And then. he said He looks at me and he goes, "I I. was listening to him really intently. like this.". And he said to me, "Amy, you see that face you're doing right. now? You see that face?" And he did it. like that. I said I said, "Yeah." He goes, "You're. going to be famous for that face. You're.

moving to New York and you're going to. be famous for that face." And I said, "Uh no, I live in LA and I'm going to be. a comedian because I'm funny and I'm. pretty and that is a deadly combination. I am going to be a comedian." And he. looks at me and this is my favorite. moment of my life. He goes like this. "I don't give a rat's ass what you say. You're going to be famous for that. face.". Six months later Oh. Swear to god, on my.

children. I got SVU. Woo woo. >> Right? >> Woo woo. Woo woo. And it was one of. those things where you just go, but I. don't Who says rat's ass? Yeah. >> [laughter]. >> IS THAT NOT THE BEST LINE YOU EVER. HEARD? HERE'S HOW I FEEL ABOUT PSYCHICS. Like I love a bossy psychic. because Sure. You know what I mean? Like Just tell me. And tell me with confidence because if. you're insecure, I'm out. >> And I'm going to forget what you said. anyway. >> to forget, but he said he didn't I'm. going to remember the parts that came.

true. That's right. And he said I don't. give a rat's ass. Six months later I was. walking around doing that face going, "Where were you Tuesday night?". >> [laughter]. >> OKAY? SO, GUYS GOD, I want to do that so. bad. >> It's so good. I'm going to I'm going to. make this happen. Well, you know, let's. talk about you were on ER. And you were incredible on that show. And can you just tell me before we get. to your incredible show what it was like. to work Changed my life. And.

your performance on that show is very. tender. Thank you. I love your. performance on that show. That character. was. I felt very vulnerable and very funny. and very sweet and tender. And. to me that. What was your character's name? >> Cynthia Hooper. Thank you. Cindy Cindy. Hooper's working at the desk, being like. overwhelmed and being in love with Dr. Mark Greene, played by Anthony Edwards. And being like "Is this the right place. for me?" And it was so interesting to.

watch that character on that show at. that time because the show was about. like we're all here with a mission and. there was someone that was like, "Or. maybe I'm Or maybe I shouldn't be here.". Yeah, very much so. >> And it was so. nuanced how you played her. I loved her. Aw, thanks, Amy. That's so generous. What was the experience to be on that. show? You know, we all we lived through what. ER was. It was. the pinnacle of all. television. I mean, it was the greatest. show on the planet and the acting was.

so next level. And I look back at it and. I think of how that show really shaped. me and those actors shaped me. and how invested they were, how amazing. they were, how it was. it was acting like I'd never seen, but I. knew [clears throat] I didn't know how. to. I didn't know how to do exactly what. they were doing. It was it was like a. little out of my league. But. I watched them so skillfully and so in.

such a beautiful nuanced way. I think. that was when I went. I want to do that. I want to do that. Yeah. Whatever they're doing that's so. masterful and skilled. And that was. sparkly. It was such a turning I love. you're bringing this up. It was such a. turning point in my life because of. In In acting, the truth is it's both, right? It can be so tragic, but then. it's so funny, right? Because we panic,

you know, our heads get squeezed, we. don't know how to deal with it. All we. can do is laugh. And so it was such a. integration moment. One of the greatest. gifts I think that my dad ever gave me. was, "Mariska, you can learn from. everyone around you." So I've always. been like, "If you don't know it, watch. and learn. Watch and learn." Whether. they're younger, older, anyone. Watch. and learn. So I did and I do attribute. so much of my. success to those days. of watching these masterful actors and.

going, "I want to do that.". >> [applause]. >> You have this moment, you're on that. set, you're learning what kind of actor. you want to be. Can you walk us through how SVU comes. into your life because it is. I mean, it's That show is beyond a TV. show. That show is. not only like a cornerstone for.

a network. a franchise. but it's also. become. you know. an iconic American experience, that. show. And you are the captain of that. ship. And. I'm sure all these things you are now. able to reflect and kind of process and. and hopefully enjoy, but at the very. beginning when it it's not a tree yet. and it's just a little tiny seedling, what what's that experience you walking. in, finding out about that show,

auditioning for it. meeting Dick Wolf, scary to scary Dick. Wolf. I'm scared of Dick Wolf. I'm sure he's. he's so tough. >> what? Dick Wolf wasn't scary to me then. cuz I didn't fully know who he was and. and his. what he represented. Um. and, you know, I don't know if if you've. talked to Chris or but if he told you. about our audition. The experience was pretty magical in. terms of in terms of I mean, listen, I'm. have this personality and Chris and I I.

think where we bonded is that we both. have that sense of humor, that sense of. play, that sense of risk, that sense of. I love you, it's safe, so I'm going to. beat you. You know what I mean? And so that's. where the trust was built. So and it. came immediately. Um so I had read for. SVU, he obviously had read for SVU and. so our callback was three women, three. men. Mhm. And uh we got to the audition. and we were to be paired up.

Yeah, a lot of people don't know that. that you an audition sometimes you just. get like a dance partner and it can make. or break your chance for to get on the. show. Period, cuz it was about chemistry. Yeah. So my agent said, "Oh my god, there's an amazing guy there, his name. is Tom Slattery and he's reading for for. the role as well." In walks Chris Meloni. AND I GO, "SLATTERY!" [screaming]. And he goes, "Meloni!". And so minute one, it that's how it. opened. That's how it opened. Because I. didn't know what either one of them. looked like in [laughter] 1999 and he.

came in and I didn't know there's going. to be 47 people there. So as soon as. Chris comes in, I'm like, "Slattery! It's going to be me and Slattery." And. he goes, "Meloni." And then I said, Chris comes in and you know, he's like. wearing no clothes. Big surprise. >> Yeah. He has this huge cross and I'm. like, "Oh my god, you're Christian.". >> [laughter]. >> You're just getting it wrong, Mariska. >> goes like this, "Yeah, no.". And I go, "Then why do you have Jesus. Christ on your arm?" He goes,

"Because I admire his commitment.". >> [laughter]. >> And I'm like this, "Okay, [snorts] got. it. Got it." And it was such a I was. like, "Okay, well, there's that. I've. never met anyone like you, but I like. it.". >> [laughter]. >> And so we're sitting there and then. everyone comes in and then we got paired. up. That was the end of it. Cuz I knew. he was going to get it. I knew he I knew that he was Elliot. Stabler. I knew it. I knew it. >> Wow. >> the other people I think he felt the. same way. So as soon as they paired. paired us up, we were like, "Oh, okay, partner." It was interesting. I was.

overwhelming to get back to your. question. It was utterly overwhelming. I. loved the script and I loved the uh. progressive nature of the show. I loved. the subject matter and the fact that. they were willing to tackle it and I. loved Chris. What's so interesting about. your performance in the show and your. dynamic together is you trade kind of. like masculine and feminine a lot back. and forth. That's right. And the dance. is really interesting and.

and. in other hands, that character of Olivia. Benson would feel. um. a little one-dimensional cuz she would. feel, you know, kind of cut off from. certain parts of herself. But what's. been so interesting and what I'm sure he. brings out in you and you bring out in. him is the like the yin and yang of. those people. >> And I changed very much when he left. But also. that was done by design and because as. soon as I got the role, I.

went through a 40-hour training and. became a rape crisis counselor so I. could fully understand because I was. entering in such a new world and I. wanted to understand the cops of it. I. wanted to understand victims' advocates, rape crisis counselors and sexual. assault from a, you know, more holistic. uh viewpoint and there was so much for. me to learn and so. once I became, you know, did the 40-hour training, I. went, "Oh, I am not going to play this, you know, like a hard-nosed detective woman who's.

trying to fit into a man's world and be. masculine. I am going to be. all of myself because that's where as. women our power. lives. But also that's where anyone's. power is is when they have the ability. for integration, right? To say, "I'm. this and I'm this and I'm this and I'm. this.". What you don't want to do is let is be. put into a box or let anyone put you a. box or put other people in a box for. that matter. And then we learned very. young I mean very early. We weren't.

young. There was nothing young about us. when we got the show, but we learned. very early that the show was as only as. good as the guest cast. Right? So then. we became very with the guest cast and. we would just like help everyone and it. became really and that's one of the. things I think I'm most proud of is like. when you step onto SVU, some people come on and they're just. unbelievable and talented and they. understand it and some people they're. nervous or they struggle or they don't. fully understand the character or they. don't whatever. We have like 16 safety nets.

in place that they it's very hard to. fail on our show because we got you. I. mean, you're often someone's first job. You're often like Adam Scott was on here. and he talked about how he did. a Law & Order episode. Um I don't think. it was my show. and I'm really upset because I'm so. obsessed with Adam Scott and all things. Severance. And I think it was with Jerry. Orbach who also I used to hear was like. really like if you showed up and you. knew your scene, Jerry would love you forever. If you.

didn't know your scene, >> He's like this, "What time am I out?". Yeah, try like chop chop. >> Yeah, I got a hard out at 5:00. >> it, Jerry. You got I Jerry there's a. steak waiting for you at Morton's like. you got to get out of here. >> Period. Period end of story. Yes. But um. but what who were some people you must. have seen a lot of people like that have. come through that you thought you saw. them at the beginning of something. Is. there anyone that you. >> Abigail Breslin. Ugh. The two people that I. went. holy. holy god were Abigail Breslin. She was.

so young on the show. She kept doing uh this dance between. takes and going like do do do do do do. do do do do. Some kind of dance she was. doing and then I started doing it with. her and then we would just do it and it. was some funny little nursery rhyme. stick. I don't know what it was, but I. would just do it with her and then. they'd say action and I swear to god I. don't think I've ever seen anything like. it. She would turn. one tear. and start like lip quiver one tear. No. acting, but like I said I remember.

going, "What the. are you like Meryl Streep?" I I said, "Are you like Meryl Streep?" And she'd. be like, "I don't know." And then she'd. go back to her nursery rhyme and then. she'd go back to her nursery rhyme and I. was like, "Oh, there's something this. kid is touched. She is so magical. Savant." And then there was another. person. Another person that I called it. I remember saying it to her. is um. Megan Fey. When she did the show, I was. like, "Let me tell you something. I'm just going to tell you right now. you're going to be a big movie star. You're going to be a huge star." And I. don't like use that word because it's so.

like star. What does that even mean? But. I would I I just recognized her. A talent, B light and C she was like a. she was so sparkly internally, like an. internal sparkle. And there's just been people that have. come through where you go, "Oh, oh wow.". And it's it's almost like an effortless. Yeah. uh. beautiful light and it's so exciting. It's so exciting to see them go on and.

go. I called it. Totally. [laughter]. I called it. And and also to your point. like I'm just so uh. uh. in awe of the fact that you in working. with the material on on a daily basis. then made sure that you were able to. handle the material in your personal. life. Like that you knew like, "Okay, I'm going to really get trained here so. I not only know what I'm talking about, but I imagine you anticipated cuz I know. you do get people who approach you with.

very personal things.". >> Yeah. Listen, the subject matter of the. show was the reason I started Joyful. Heart, my foundation. >> Yeah, talk about that. Well, I just felt. like I can't when I found out the. statistics, which was one out of four, one out of three women in their lifetime. will be sexually assaulted. One out of. six men in their lifetime will be. sexually assaulted. And when I learned. those statistics, I was like, "Stop. Hold, please. Why is everyone not. talking about this? This is an epidemic.

This is something that it affects. everyone. If you're at lunch with three. or four women, one person has been. assaulted.". And so. because as soon as I started the show, everybody because it was, you know, this. it's on television, it becomes water. cooler conversation and then it's okay. to talk about. >> Yeah. And that was the power of SVU is. that you had these horrific stories, true stories, ripped from the headline. stories being told and then you had a.

fierce. protective father figure Mhm. and a. fierce. nurturing mother figure, which was, you. know, Chris and I. to protect you and that's all anybody. wanted. So I think that a lot of it. comes from the fact that there's space. to be heard. And think about everybody, every person on this planet, all we want. is to be seen, to be seen and listened.

to. That doesn't always happen. >> Mhm. But when we're listened to, half [sighs] of it and believed, half of. the injury. can go away. Mhm. And so Mhm. I know that that's how I heal is being. listened to. and believed. And so I think the character. who listens, who believes and then.

feels a need to fix and protect, obviously is going to create safety. because that's all you want. But I also. um. I can't save the world. I can't uh I'm. just trying to do it, but what I can do. is teach people about how we begin. I teach people how we. how we can listen and and live in a more. compassionate, empathetic, and kind way. And simply by listening, and simply by.

believing, and simply by saying, "I'm so. sorry that that happened to you.". It's. it's like tectonic plates shifting. Well, it kind of gets back to what we. were saying, which is it it's not so. much always about the doing of the. thing. It's just about the sitting and. the feeling of the thing. >> it. It's sitting in it. >> as you think. It's That's exactly right. And I think to go back to our how we. started this conversation, I think that. is. that is the clarity of being older and.

understanding. And for me, it's been. more about. learning to be tolerant, tolerant with. myself. And the more tolerant I've. become with myself or my own pain, um. the more internal space that I've had, which is why I was able to make my my. film. Yeah. Yeah. So, let's talk about. your film. And and and Chris's question. to me for you is a perfect segue into. the film because Chris wanted me to ask.

you when we were talking well behind. your back and then he took a phone call. from you and then you talked well behind. my I back. Thank God. Um. but no, but Chris wanted me to ask you. like and it's kind of what we've been. talking about today. There's a curiosity. to you. You you don't want to just. figure out, you know, you don't want to. just be outraged about things that are. wrong or not working. You want to figure. out the why behind things. The why is. very important to you. And. he was wondering, where do you think.

that comes from? And that question made. me think about your film because. um you know, for people uh you know, it. it premiered at the um Canne Film. Festival. My mom, Jane, um Mariska made a. beautiful documentary about learning. more about herself and her mom and her. entire family and. all the connections there and. um. it felt like that uh.

exercise in trying to figure out the why. behind your origin story feels like it. also exists in other things that you do. in work and in life and in your family. right now. Is that is that is there a. connection there? It's like figuring out. the why. Yeah, it's funny. Um my mom, my stepmom. just actually text I don't know my. phone, but she. she texted me yesterday. Like this this. sort of why of it all is just coming up. right now in a very uh crystallized way, which which I love when sort of.

everything sort of comes together like. that. But yeah, I think that I've spent. a lot of my life trying to. make sense of things, of chaos. >> Mhm. And. also. I'm living a life right now. that I never thought that. I was capable of living. Right? And so. I still I'm trying to put together the.

pieces of why and what those. Jenga or Lego pieces were that helped. build it, right? And so for my film. I was just trying to understand these. people and their decisions. And so. I wanted to go in with this um. disciplined. curiosity because. I had jumped to so many conclusions. And because I felt different my whole.

life and like I didn't belong. And then when I found out what I find. out in the film, I was like, why? Why. would he Mhm. not. choose me, claim me? Like what's wrong with me? Mhm. Why. would she leave me in this mess? Why did. I feel what were the things that were. set Why did like the little detective. child, I was like, this doesn't add up, this doesn't add up, this doesn't add. up. And I and I wanted to understand.

why. And I also wanted to just have. somebody be straight with me. Ooh, I. mean, Mariska, it's so deep what you're. saying that that is little like that is. detective child then becomes in real. life this powerful. detective on television who is. advocating for other people to get. answers while she's spent, you know, the. the the very. most important beginning years of her. life trying to figure that out for. herself. Yeah.

>> It's And I think that, you know, I don't. think I could have made this movie. before now. I had to build the. infrastructure. Yeah. >> Right? To make sure that it was solid as. a rock. One of the most beautiful things. about the film is, you know, this idea. that you're toggling between kind of. like yesterday and today and your. present is you're such a beautiful. family. And you've such a wonderful. partner in Peter. >> do. And that relationship, watching that. in real time is so moving.

And also just like sexy and fun. Like. you guys are a lot of fun together. I've. I've had the opportunity to see you. together and you're a really like. you you you you spoke about it earlier, like the way in which he can kind of. joke you off of the ledge. Like you guys. have fun with each other. You enjoy each. other. You've been married for how how. how long? 21. And you met on SVU? Chris. and I were so that was what was hard for. people and they and a lot of people said. it. We were so in our own private Idaho.

and we would just be joking joking and. it was such intense energy between us. that I think people were like, I can't play on that level. Do you know. what I mean? Like I can't. So, I'm sure. it's like that on you guys too. >> that now and people go, oh [ __ ] this is. some next level [ __ ]. >> Oh, yes. Like sometimes when I would. kind of, you know, have. someone around all the comedy people and. they would just be doing bits and bits. and bits. I'd look over to a person's. face and they'd be like, get me out of. here. >> Yeah, yeah, no. I can't imagine. >> Help me. Yeah. And or or also like I.

don't know how to get in there. Okay. But but Peter Oh. all tall Peter tall. Peter. >> How tall? 6'5". 6'5"! >> [laughter]. >> 6'5"! No, it's it's so crazy with Peter and I. and I'll tell you something. That was. another thing that my dad said to me. He. goes, "Mariska, find out where you're going and then. who's coming with you." Oh, [screaming]. that's so good. >> But Peter and I just, you know, we I. didn't get married till I was 40. and we we dated for 2 years and then.

once he asked me to marry him, we got. married in 4 months cuz I had to do it. over hiatus. You know what I mean? >> [laughter]. >> And so it was like, okay. Chop chop. >> They were like, and we're rolling. And. yeah, we're rolling. And so then it was. just it's been a, you know, I'm so. grateful for me that I don't think I. could have handled a marriage earlier. I. don't think I'd be married. I was just. too had too much to learn. So, I just. went straight to like, you know, the. second husband. Yeah. Smart. >> Yeah. Right? >> Yeah, smart. And so we're it's just. good, you know, I'm just grateful that I.

had a little bit more of life. experience. >> your communication style? Like how do. you guys, you know, It's so genius. >> How do you Yeah, how does it work? I'll tell you something. We have a skill that I wish I could. teach. You can. You could start a. seminar right now. >> do is there's like tension, like. somebody will say something that'll. annoy me and then there's this brilliant. thing we do um. and I think it's brilliant because it. it's again, it's comedy and always. works. What we do this thing where we.

switch roles, right? But you do a thing. like if I said, "Peter, you know, I'll get mad at him cuz he'll. leave his clothes around and I he leaves. little messes everywhere and I'm like, why can't you just pick your [ __ ] up and. put it like why does it have to be in. every room? Everywhere he goes, there's. messes everywhere." Just tiny little. pile and I'm like, "Do you not. >> so tall that the piles must be huge. >> Huge. That's exactly right. And I'm. like, why? Do you see how much effort I. put into having the house neat? I need.

the mental space for something to be. organized. I have so much going on. And. so then he'll do I'll get like mad and. we'll have things. He's like, "YEAH, I. JUST LEFT IT THERE FOR 1 SECOND." AND. WHATEVER IT IS. AND THEN he'll come in. and I had left a cup and he goes, "How many times have I asked you? It's. really important to me if you could just. And then he'll say exactly what I said. So, what it means is he get he really. gets it. And it works with everything. So, you're. meaning he he he he he parrots back to. you what you said. >> But from his point of but but like as in.

he it's as in as he takes. it's like wife appropriation. Well, it's. I think it's actually what they do in. couples therapy, which is basically like. say back. >> Yes. But he does it as it's his. And my. the problem now is because I'll do it to. him. I go like he'll sometimes I'll say. the wrong word and he's like, I wish. wish you'd be more thoughtful with your. words cuz he always says the right word. and I get I say the gist. Right? I'm I'm. a gist person, too. >> I'm a gist. And so I go, "You know what. I mean?" And look at all this like. gesticulating I'm doing. So, you can. feel me. I can my energy is coming at.

you. And he's like, "Just be take a. second and maybe think about it." But. all in our house, the comedy thing is we. just rip on the kids. Same. I mean, I. just say, "Don't do that cuz if you do. that, you're a hack and a loser. Is that. what you want to be? Is that what you. want to Totally. And people come over. and they don't know us, they're like, "Oh shit." And I go, "Yeah." That to me. that is what intimacy is. I I've said. this before about like. politeness is for strangers and for. people that we don't know. Like By the. way, I don't feel safe around polite. because then I'm like,

>> cuz what are you really thinking? I. promise you I won't torture you. I won't. play games with you. And don't and and. please, if I go do you like this and. someone goes no, I go great. I I want to. know if they don't like it. >> We're exactly the same this way. Yeah. Somebody came to me and said, do you. like these shoes? And I went, nope. >> [laughter]. >> And it helps with directing, doesn't it? Because you Yes. >> I say, do you know what I do instead? When I'm directing I go, guys guys. Oh. YOU SUCK.

>> [laughter]. >> AND I'LL SAY THAT AND GO, oh my god, you're so bad. We'll be in the middle of. a take and I'll say, you guys are so. bad. I don't know what just happened, but I'm embarrassed for you. [laughter]. Let's cut and try that again. And but [clears throat] now they know. I'll laugh, but they also know I'm. right. >> Yes. And also, you know what I love. about you, Mariska, is I knew that you. wouldn't. >> Tell me. I I [laughter] knew you. wouldn't do this podcast unless you. wanted to. >> I wanted to so bad. >> Because I know that you don't really do. things you don't want to do. >> Not anymore. Right. That's the That's the That's kind. of like the the reward that one gets if.

they're trying to stay true and they're. trying and they're trying to be a good. person. >> Yeah. One of the rewards, if you're. paying attention, is you might get to a. point where you really try to stay true. to what you want to do. Yeah. And so I. get comfort in that like you're here. because you want to be here, not because. >> Totally. >> someone told you to be here. No, exactly. >> Okay, but let's get into some real. questions. Okay, so this is rapid fire. Speaking of directness. Okay. Rapid. fire. >> Let's go. >> Jalen Brunson. Love.

People are so jealous of me. I KNOW. LIKE IT. >> [laughter]. >> THE CUTEST RELATIONSHIP EVER. How did. that start? He loves you. >> I love him. >> I know you guys love each other. >> it started. >> Knicks player for the New York Knicks. >> I mean, it's just the sweetest thing. And it's just it's just like a. another one of those meant to be. Sometimes I don't even question things. I think Jalen was brought up on SVU. Mhm. [clears throat]. >> You know what I mean? I think his dad, Rick I every time I say that I laugh. It.

sounds like I'm name dropping Rick. Rick. and I were like this. >> [laughter]. >> But um Rick Rick. loved SVU. He watched it. Jalen, so I. think the first time I went they were. like, oh my god, like, you know, they in. that and then we connected and it was. just easy and effortless and I'm you. know, huge basketball fan and I I got to. meet Jalen also before he was Jalen. You. know, he's Jalen now these last what, three, four years, right? But. but it was it predates that. And so it's.

so beautiful because he there was just. such a he's so I mean, he's so sweet. He's such a killer and such a captain. and such a leader, but he is so like. soft and mushy and sweet and kind and. he's such a lover of his family. He's so. good. And so um. I just feel so um. honored to be in his orbit. >> Yeah, it's really really it really makes. you feel good. >> Yeah. Okay, strange I'm sure you've had. a million of strange things happen to. you shooting in the streets of New York.

Anything that stands out like a moment. of. pretty wild New York um. like a you know, only in New York. moment. Well, there's a you know, there's the old one we're shooting and. then people just come up to us right. while we're in the scene [laughter]. and start talking and then be like, OH. MY GOD, I LOVE YOUR SHOW. AND I'M LIKE, WELL, THAT'S GOOD cuz we're actually. shooting it right now. Do you see that. camera? And they're like, oh my god, hi. And then they keep walking. >> [laughter]. >> So that I like. >> Okay. >> Or there's the opposite of that when. people have said to me, and Chris, Chris. was there, I love this one. I don't.

really get your show. Oh, yeah. >> I don't get you or your show. And I'm. like, well. >> Okay, thank you. Thank you for the. in person feedback. >> Doesn't speak to everyone. >> [laughter]. >> And they go right up and tell you. Do. you think of yourself as a New Yorker. now? I do. You do. I do now. >> Yeah. Okay, what about um who should. play you in the movie of your life? I love always Let's think about this. Oh god, that's a good one. I mean, it's. cuz it's like do we want do we want.

I feel like it's got to I feel like it's. like a really good pick. I can't think of her name. I think Cate. Blanchett. >> [laughter]. >> I think Cate Blanchett plays you in the. story of your life. >> I like it. I like Now you are really. thinking outside the box here, sister. I. want this movie to open, baby. I like. this Cate Blanchett. I think it's um. Well, I'm going to go with the Megan. Fey. See how I go? >> Nice. Megan Fey is you in your 20s and. 30s on ER trying to figure it out. And. then we go we cut to the state of the.

SVU and it's Cate Blanchett. Beautiful. blue eyes. Go ahead. You're right. [laughter]. Okay, um have you always had such nice. hair? Yes. And how. your hair is incredible. >> Well, my hair was good um in the Well, my hair was good. I didn't love I had. some bad years on SVU when it turned. reddish. >> We all have bad years. We all have bad. years. I did some Martha Washington. stuff that was not good. We all have bad. years. We all have bad years. We all. We've all been there. >> was some stuff that I um there was not. good. That combined with like bad Botox. I had some bad years. >> We all have had some We've all made some.

choices that we we we regret. We're good. now. And we all have kind of like a. frizz. We're just tousled and loose. I have so. much fake hair in I don't even want to. take it out on the table. It would be. horrifying. >> Do you know that I didn't wear fake hair. today because I was like, I she said to. me. >> Amy's not going to wear it. >> I know. She goes, do you want to put in. a piece? I go, no. Amy's like just real. and natural and stuff. And she I just. want to be like Amy and have that 25. pieces of fake hair in. Um okay. Next time I come, should I be.

invited back? I want you full volume. I'm going to look like Rapunzel. [laughter]. Okay. I want full volume. Volume. Um how badly have people screwed up your. name? >> Oh. Like. >> live with it. Who [laughter] was it last. night? Oh, I had a lunch yesterday. I. had a brunch yesterday for my sister and. my cousin was there. >> [laughter]. >> Their own cousin. I've known him from 19. since 1994 and he kept calling me. Mariska. And I at lunch when I I I go. Mar And then I said no, just let it go. And then Chris and my friends that when. it happens cuz it happens on set a lot. Now I on the call sheet it's m a r i s h.

h h h h h h h k a. That's how I put it. on the call sheet just so people go, oh, okay, got it. She's big on the H's. But. he was calling me I get called Maritza. um Marsica um [laughter] Marquisa um but. Chris will call me um Maritza. >> [laughter]. >> on set. Or just to confuse people. >> Oh, yeah. Maritza Maritza and Marissa You know, I'll tell you who learned it. All of.

America. >> [laughter]. >> And the world. The world learned it. >> But it's Mariska Mariska. >> And what does it mean? What's What does your name mean? >> Oh, gorgeous talented one. Ray of. sunshine. Queen of Queen of Queen of Queen of. Queen of Queen of straight talk. >> Yes. Queen of one with the thick. luxurious hair. >> That's it. Um it means it's a nickname. for Maria. It means little Maria in. Hungarian. The k a or k e on end of a.

name, it just is like a little. endearment. So the name is actually. Maria after my grandmother. Both of. them. Hungarian and Italian. See the film, people. >> [laughter]. >> That's it. On HBO right now. Such a good film. It's such A GOOD BUT. DON'T YOU KIND OF LOVE that both. grandmothers Beautiful. Also Maria. Maria. Maria. Maria. You um do you you. you're a Hamilton fan by the way cuz I. was about to say So so hardcore. Me, too. Did you see it 27 times?

No. I win. 27? 27. And by the way, my claim to fame and. when people say like, when did you know. you were famous? And I go, when I would. call Hamilton or just show up at the. theater and they'd go, they bring a. chair, put it in the audience and I'd be. like That's right. That's right. You. earned that. You earned that. I've made it. You earned that. >> I don't even have to have a ticket. You. know how much those tickets were? No, [laughter] they were like, let's get. Mariska her chair. Just get her her. chair. I was like an old woman. I didn't. even mind. I'd go in there. And I'd go.

in with a cane. >> [laughter]. >> THAT IS A 27 TIMES? And I just had this great actor on SVU. last episode and he's now in the show. and so he was like, I hope you can come. And I go, oh, I'll be there. So I'm it's. even a thing where the new cast members. want me to come see them. Oh, that's so. Have you ever done Broadway? Broadway? Yes. That's [laughter] how. That's how you're supposed to say it. >> Well, thank you. Broadway. I know I want. to do Broadway.

>> Broadway. I want to be in an all woman. Hamilton. Right? You and me with straight talk? >> Okay, who would you. >> Wait a minute. We would be Aaron Burr. and and and Hamilton. Well, who's who? >> [laughter]. >> Let's get Let's take a minute. Let's go. slow. Okay, let's start. Yeah, thank. you. Slow it all down right now. >> Who's who? Aaron Burr cuz. I think I. I think I think you might. I think I might be Aaron Burr. >> I That's what I was going to say. >> Yes, and not just cuz I want to be.

Hamilton. I want you to be Hamilton and. I want you to be And I feel like I could. get the rage. I I I I think I think you. have a gravitas that Aaron Burr needs. cuz and I think I have a um. like a uh. like a I know all the lines though, do. you? >> An energy. I don't know all the lines. >> get you Maybe you should do both. >> [laughter]. >> But you just do that and then you lip. sync to me. on the stage. BUT THE ONLY PROBLEM IS.

ONE THING I can't [laughter] sing. You. can't sing. No, but maybe we do it like. in Well, God is fair. We don't need to. You can't sing. ONE THING YOU CAN'T DO, BABE. We [laughter] can't sing. One thing. You. can't sing. Oh, that's funny. Can I ask. you more questions? >> Okay, okay. Okay, what's making you laugh these. days? What do you What is it what I ask. I always ask my guests, what do you like. What do you listen to, do. read like you know, to to lighten up, to. laugh? >> Nate Bargatze. Oh, love him.

>> fav. He's so I don't even know how to I. don't even understand what he's doing. >> break him down because I love him. >> Well, it's the it's he's like mastered. this like kind of slow guy that's a. genius. Right? It's that's the stick, right? Is. like he's kind of slow and dumb, but. he's smarter than everyone. Yes. I love. him so much and can I tell you why also. I love him? I was at in LA. I didn't know who he was and I was with. my friend and she said, "I think that's. Nate Bargatze." And I said, "Who's Nate. Bargatze?" And he goes, "That's August's.

favorite comedian.". >> Aw. So I went up to him and I go, "Are. you Nate Bargatze?". Hoping I'm saying it. >> like he was like, "We're shooting right. now. We have to". >> [laughter]. >> And he goes, "Yeah, I am." And I go, "Well, I my son loves you. Can we call. him?". >> [laughter]. >> Mariska, I swear to god. No, I swear to. you. I swear to you I did. And you know. why I did it? Because do you know how. many people do that to me? [laughter]. And I thought that I had good karma. I. had good call karma. And you know what. he said? Yeah.

And so we called him. >> [laughter]. >> You did not. Bargatze and he's like, "Hey man.". >> [laughter]. >> I love him. >> Love him. He's so funny. Do you want Do. you watch a lot of stand-up? Do you like. to go to see stand-up? >> I I love good I love. good comedy. It's my happy That is my. happy place. August, that's what we. love. >> Mhm. >> But I'm also critical. Yeah. If they're not funny. Yeah. >> And I don't know who I am to judge. >> No, you can judge as much as you. >> know what I like. I feel like comedy is. like music. You just like You just like.

who you like. You like what like you. like their song, whatever it is. >> I love it. And I love Nate. And and I. love You know what I'm listening to late. at night before I go to bed? I don't. know why I love it so much. It's that. Jim Carrey bit doing Vanilla Ice. >> [laughter]. >> Hold on. Okay, it's an In Living Color. sketch. >> Yes. This is it. And he's dancing? >> Watch. Just listen to it. >> [laughter]. >> Wait, he really looks like him. He. He kicks his shoe off. >> [laughter].

>> Just watch. >> [laughter]. >> Is that not the best thing? This was so. fun. >> but do Can you imagine how excited? Cuz. I said I used to see you around. Well, we know you. I don't even see I don't. see you anymore and I remember. I remember. What do you remember? >> Just that you're good and sparkly and. and beautiful and kind and you bring. joy. Thanks, Mariska. And Chris doesn't. like anyone. Yeah. >> [laughter]. >> He really is a very judicious guy and he.

loves his family, he loves his kids and. he has like three friends. He likes me. >> Yeah. And that's pretty much it. >> [laughter]. >> And I just remembered like he just loved. you. And so I it's um it's so. I was. so funny that I called him today. Okay, Mariska, you're the best. >> This was so fun. I told you. She's like, "Are you ready?" I was like, "Sweetheart, I'm born ready." [laughter]. Thank you so much, Mariska. That was so.

fun. That was such a good hang. And you. know. in this Polar Plunge, I just want to. take a second to say, let's picture a. world in which Cate Blanchett plays. Mariska Hargitay in a movie of her life. story because I would watch it. And if. there's any. producers or financiers listening who. want to partner up with me on that and. Kate, if someone can get this message to. Kate, I think that that would be a great. project. And I've been asked before.

if your life was a movie, who would you. want to play you? And my answer is very. simple and that is. Meryl Streep. I want the best and I can't guarantee. the movie will be good or interesting in. any way. Honestly, it'll probably be a flop. But. Meryl at the helm, it's going to be a. good performance. So Meryl. Kate and Meryl, I'm assuming you're. together. Please Please call us at 1-800.

>> [laughter]. >> Good Hang in the Movie. #MariskaHargitay'sMovie. # /life. life rights and we'll get this going. Okay, sorry. I'm I'm lost. I've lost the. plot. Okay, bye. Thanks for listening. Bye. You've been listening [music] to Good. Hang. The executive producers for this. show are Bill Simmons, Jenna. Weiss-Berman and me, Amy Poehler. The. show is produced by The Ringer and Paper. Kite. For The Ringer, production by Jack. Wilson, Kat Spelling, [music] Haya.

McMullen and Alana Zaneros. For Paper. Kite, production by Sam Green, Joel. Lovell and Jenna Weiss-Berman. Original. music by Amy Miles. I know I have a one. who [music] was a. really good hang.